Arnica Montana belong to the Compositae family, so it is a relative of the common Daisy. Several of this family of plants are used homeopathically and herbally. The star shaped flowers of this botanical family are familiar to us all as sunflowers and ornamental daisies. Other members of the Compositae family include food crops such as lettuce, chicory, globe artichoke and guayule – a source of hypoallergenic latex.
This link goes to a great Arnica cream/salve available on Amazon.
The plants are rich in inulin, a compound between sugar and starch that the plant store in their underground organs as a source of energy. It is used as a natural sweetener for diabetics. The Compositae contain selenium and arnica ash is rich in manganese. Both selenium and manganese are powerful antioxidants in the human body, and in addition manganese is an essential element needed for healthy bones, wound-healing, and the metabolism of protein, cholesterol, and carbohydrates. This rich source of manganese might be the one involved in the healing properties of arnica.
Arnica oil is a great way to get a very pure concentrated preparation to be used in salves and creams.
Arnica Montana is an alpine plant, grows in meadows up to 3,000 meters above sea level, where it is exposed to strong sunlight. The higher the altitude, the more aromatic the plant becomes.
For centuries arnica Montana has been used for bruising and sprains. The roots contain essential arnica oils, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. The plant is used for traumatic injuries involving bruising, and as a cardiac tonic for weak and weary hearts.
It is also used in the form of arnica cream or arnica salve. Here you will get a great cream/salve made with Arnica montana.
Arnica montana is used for bruising, swelling, pain relief, arthritis, healing. It heals bruises very fast, any trauma that causes blood vessels to break under the skin. It is a potent natural anti-implammatory remedy (great after surgery). It stimulates the body’s healing process. It is great for the treatment of stiffness and arthritis.
Today Arnica montana is used for childbirth, headaches, shocks, burns, scars, acne, insect bites, mental burnout, tinnitus and jet lag.
Sources:
British homeopathic association.
Arnica.com
